Chapter 23

After finishing a hearty lunch, I returned to the Main Hall.

Unlike the morning’s theory class, the afternoon was dedicated to practical training.

However, just as Malboro mentioned, it had been changed to Autonomous Training until the day of the duel.

Though they call it “autonomous,” it essentially means we just wrap up with the morning class. Maybe that’s why some students don’t show up.

‘Is it mostly the wizards who use the Personal Training Room?’

I followed Luna into the Autonomous Training area. Kara had stepped away briefly to change clothes.

The Autonomous Training area I saw in reality was impressively spacious. It was much larger than an ordinary gym.

There were workout machines set up to improve physical abilities, and a simple dueling area also existed.

Moreover, there was even space designated for personal training, making it an excellent facility.

“Hmm… what should we start with?”

While I was scanning the Autonomous Training area, Luna muttered in thought.

Normally, she would have focused on her training alone. But today, I’m here.

She couldn’t just leave me hanging and seemed uncertain about what training we could do together.

‘I’m more focused on skills now.’

My physical specs are already stacked. What I urgently need is skill.

I don’t even have the basic skills like the first starter kick. This is a bit of a serious issue.

It’s so serious that substantial effort is needed to grasp the basics. Obtaining even the basics isn’t easy for most people.

“I’m back.”

“Oh. You’re here…”

While I was pondering the training methods, a familiar voice reached my ears.

Luna paused when she turned her head towards the direction of that voice. I slowly glanced back at the source.

“Aren’t you going to change? I get that Sivar doesn’t, but the school uniform is uncomfortable.”

It was Kara. She stood there in an outfit that looked really refreshing.

A snug black sports bra paired with short shorts. An outfit that matches her cool vibe.

Moreover, she had scars of various sizes across her limbs, creating a strong impression.

It was evidence of how many battles she had faced.

“…I’m fine. I’m planning to focus on swordsmanship today. What about you, Kara?”

“I’m working on physical training… well, at least that’s the plan.”

Kara said this while looking at me with a pondering expression.

I took a moment to observe Kara closely. I didn’t notice how remarkable she was when she wore a school uniform.

Starting with her bronzed skin to the distinctly chiseled abs on her stomach. She truly embodies healthiness.

‘Guess being from a desert country makes them more open to exposure?’

It’s a hot climate, so not much hesitation regarding revealing clothing.

Maybe that’s why I heard she wears such outfits when there’s no class or over the weekends.

The Soul World is filled with attractive characters, but Kara stands out with her striking individuality.

“So what’s she going to do? It’s awkward to just leave her be.”

While I was distracted, Kara pointed at me and asked.

It seemed to be a difficult situation even for Luna, as she replied with a slightly awkward expression.

“Actually, that’s a dilemma for me too. If we leave her like this, I feel uneasy, but it feels awkward to train her.”

“Then can I take her with me?”

“Excuse me?”

Luna seemed surprised by Kara’s suggestion. She looked like she was asking, “What do you mean?”

“Oh. Just to clarify, it won’t be a duel or anything. I just have a few questions.”

“If it’s questions…”

“Like about muscle strength or reaction speed. The main thing I’m curious about is the spear throwing. From what I saw during the duel, your spear skills seemed exceptional.”

During my duel with Elvin, I had thrown the spear hard just for defensive purposes.

If I had thrown it even a bit harder back then, Elvin’s head would have been skewered like a shish kebab.

I had thrown it using pure strength, without any magic involved. Kara seems quite curious about that.

“Don’t you wanna know?”

“I think my strength is alright. I broke Manky’s leg cleanly with a stone axe, you know.”

“Impressive. But I’m still curious, so let’s give it a try. You should try it too.”

“Why me?”

“Because I’m curious if power comes from such skinny arms.”

“Are you provoking me just because I’m a duel opponent already?”

While they were having their friendly (?) conversation, I looked around somewhere else.

Then I suddenly noticed the Dueling Arena. Students were gathering around where a duel was taking place.

I felt a spark of curiosity and slowly walked over. Luna and Kara were too busy bickering to notice me.

Bang!

As I arrived at the Dueling Arena, I caught sight of a female student rapidly thrusting with a spear.

The male student she was facing off with managed to avoid the thrust just by moving his head, then slashed upward with his two-handed sword.

An attack executed simultaneously with dodging. The female student seemed to have anticipated it, blocking the attack effortlessly with the back of her spear.

Even when blocked, the male student didn’t falter; he pushed in with his shoulder instead.

The spear needed range to be effective, and so it seemed he aimed to negate that advantage.

Whoosh!

However, that tactic was thwarted as the female student twisted her body smoothly to evade.

If this went on, the male student would be in trouble, but he quickly swung his sword to prevent a follow-up hit.

In less than a second, the two engaged in an intense exchange, both clearly aware of the strengths and weaknesses of their weapons.

“I think that’s enough for today.”

“Good job.”

I wanted to watch more, but it seemed to be the end.

The students who had been watching the impressive duel responded with applause.

As I stood there wondering if I should clap too, a student in front of me turned around.

The student glanced at me, initially puzzled, but then his gaze went up, and he looked at me.

“Whoa?!”

“…”

Well, that’s a unique scream.

As soon as he saw me, the man let out a peculiar shriek, and suddenly all eyes were on me.

Each one wore a face that screamed, ‘Why is he here?’ I guess I was supposed to have snuck in unnoticed.

Moving stealthily has become a habit. I have no choice if I want to increase my chances of success in hunting.

‘Guess this is why my Ambush was rated Ex.’

Anyway, since the duel had just finished, I felt like it was best to head back.

There’s nothing for me to do here, and it would just be wasting time.

“There you are. What were you doing here?”

“Are you really expecting a response from him?”

“Shush.”

Just then, Luna, who had noticed my “disappearance,” found me. Kara tackling me was just a bonus.

I glanced at the bustling Dueling Arena before trailing behind Luna.

Before long, I could hear the clashing sounds of weapons, indicating that another duel had started.

When I looked back, it seemed like other students were clashing their weapons back and forth.

“Sivar? What are you looking at?”

As I halted my steps, Luna also shot a questioning look towards the Dueling Arena.

After a moment’s thought, her face showed a hint of realization, and she asked me in disbelief.

“Are you seriously wanting to duel?”

“What? Really?”

Luna might be unaware, but why is she the one looking so expectantly?

I shook my head while Kara’s eyes brightened at my reaction, asking me curiously.

“Well, if you want to learn swordsmanship, I can show you.”

The moment I blinked in surprise, she pulled out a training sword that was strapped to her waist.

She started demonstrating basic sword techniques, from light slashes to thrusts and upper cuts.

It was a fundamental practice in swordsmanship.

Even still, it was executed with no unnecessary movements—impeccably clean. Kara even showed interest in it.

“This is what you mean, right?”

“Geez.”

I nodded in agreement.

However, it’s important to note that most weapons become one-time use once they’re in my hands.

I figured I should know as little as something rather than nothing, so I asked.

Luna’s expression turned awkward as she scratched her cheek upon hearing my request.

“Uh…sorry. It might be tough. I’m not really someone who can teach others.”

“What?!”

What do you mean? You’re the Protagonist!

Contrary to my inner thoughts, the words that slipped out were denial.

Luna is the protagonist of the Soul World. She has the talent that allows her to soak up various skills despite the challenges.

Understanding what was in my heart, or maybe sensing the emotion in my voice, Luna looked embarrassed.

“I’m sorry. While a teacher is important, a student matters just as much. I’ve no idea if you would understand my explanations.”

“Geez.”

I can understand. I comprehend all the words you’re saying.

With an exasperated expression, I mentioned my feelings of frustration, causing Luna to widen her eyes in surprise.

“Sivar. Are you… angry?”

“Not angry, just frustrated. Just tell me straight. I’m quite capable.”

Kara boldly put her foot down on the matter.

Luna wore a look of skepticism before finally handing me a training sword mounted on a rack.

It’s made of iron, but the blade isn’t sharpened. It’s built purely for practice.

“By the way, why do you suddenly want to learn swordsmanship?”

“You were staring intently during the duel, weren’t you? It looked so cool, like kids playing knight.”

“Your intellect is normal for your age, they say.”

“There’s a saying that men can be children, too.”

Kara’s logical statement brought a chuckle from Luna. She didn’t particularly disagree.

Honestly, watching those two students duel was impressive. Observing them gauge each other’s moves using only skills.

Much greater and spectacular techniques will unfold during the upcoming duel events.

“At this rate, building patience wouldn’t be a bad idea either. Just keep holding onto that.”

“Geez?”

“My teacher used to say that a sword needs to feel familiar in your hands first.”

Luna nodded in complete understanding. I know about her master as well.

So even if I wanted to grumble about it, I had no choice but to comply silently.

“This time, you’re holding it in your right hand. I thought he wasn’t left-handed?”

“He must be ambidextrous. He threw that spear with his right hand during the duel, right?”

That’s because I had no choice after my left arm got bitten by a wolf as soon as I fell into the woods.

By the time my left arm had healed, my right hand was already comfortable to use.

So now, we are just switching back and forth. At least my left hand has become more accustomed.

“Even ambidextrous folks usually have a frequently used hand, so understanding that is key. Plus, being left-handed would help much more.”

“That would be good. Oh, by any chance, would you teach me any fighting skills, too?”

“…Fighting skills?”

At the mention of fighting, Luna blinked, reacting innocently.

Kara narrowed her eyes, surprised, as if to confirm her shocking thoughts about Luna.

“Wait, you seriously don’t know any fighting skills? Not even basic grappling?”

“No.”

“Oh boy.”

Kara covered her face with her hand at Luna’s pure answer. Luna just tilted her head in confusion.

Afterward, while holding her face, Kara looked back and forth between Luna and me before letting out a heavy sigh.

Clearly, she was exuding frustration.

“This won’t do. Let’s ditch everything else and start learning fighting techniques. By the way, do you know what grappling is?”

“I’ve heard it’s an essential skill all fighters learn, just like boxing.”

“It’s not just a fighter’s must-have; it’s a fundamental attribute for all martial arts. Especially, there’s nothing better than grappling to elevate your movement and physique.”

Kara’s words were spot on.

In the Soul World, one of the essential skills to acquire is fighting.

There’s no need to go deep, but at least mastering the basics is crucial.

‘Otherwise, getting mounted would essentially be the end.’

Especially if a grappler were to mount you, it would be effectively game over.

Even if you struggle, by the time a few fists nail your face, your stamina will plummet.

To escape, you have two options: overpowering physicality or using techniques.

“I mainly use a sword, so do I really need fighting skills?”

“You mentioned earlier that you’ve never had battle experience, right?”

“Yes.”

“You need to learn fighting skills just for that reason. If you don’t, it’ll end badly if you end up in a close fight or you get knocked down. It’s crucial to build balance to prevent falling.”

This aligned with Malboro’s advice from earlier that morning.

To prevent falling as much as possible, it’s better to buy good shoes.

This saying implies that the moment I encounter an opponent of a similar skill level, I will inevitably fall at least once.

‘In the Soul World, striking a downed opponent guarantees a critical hit.’

It can truly be seen as needless realistic validation.

Regardless, grappling is generally useful, so acquiring it would be beneficial.

The biggest advantage is that it significantly increases flexibility, helping to prevent falls.

Just that one factor greatly enhances the experience, making it essential in the Soul World.

“Not falling…”

“Don’t even pull that ‘wouldn’t it be fine not to fall?’ line. When even evenly matched fighters engage, chaos ensues 100% of the time. So will you learn now?”

“…No.”

Is it pride? Or stubbornness?

Luna turned down Kara’s suggestion, her expression slightly disgruntled.

“I barely have time for swordsmanship, let alone anything else. I’m sorry.”

“Well, if that’s your choice, then fine. But don’t come to me later asking for lessons.”

“I don’t think that’s going to happen.”

At least I hope not.

When I get beaten like crazy in the upcoming bouts, I’m sure I’ll regret it.

While I thought that, Kara shrugged her shoulders.

Then, looking completely unconcerned, she gazed at me and confidently suggested.

“So how about you? Instead of learning swordsmanship first, why not start with grappling? Honestly, that would be a better way to go.”

“Wait a minute. Sivar specifically decided to learn swordsmanship first. He requested it.”

“Swordsmanship or whatever, you need to learn movement first, right? I’ll teach him instead.”

And so, yet again, their quarrel resumed. I wonder when they’ll ever become friends.

But, thankfully, unlike before, their argument ended quickly. It seemed they realized they were just going in circles.

“Then let’s ask Sivar. Isn’t that better?”

“That sounds good. What do you want to learn first?”

The choice had fallen into my hands. I glanced back and forth between Luna and Kara.

Seeing them side by side, I noticed a significant height difference between them.

While Luna isn’t short by any means, Kara’s height is taller than most men.

Regardless, I needed to make a decision. I scrutinized both of them before taking a step forward.

Truth be told, I’d made up my mind long ago.

“S-Sivar? Why…”

Luna’s face expressed disbelief at my choice.

“Ha! It looks like I’m better than you after all!”

Kara grinned proudly, placing a hand on my shoulder.

As you can see, I picked Kara over Luna.

While swordsmanship is appealing, grappling—or rather ‘fighting’—is essential.

‘The fact that I can’t obtain a weapon that can withstand my magic power adds to my decision.’

Like I said, currently available weapons become one-time use to me.

What’s the point of learning swordsmanship or spear skills if they break completely?

In that case, I might as well wield an easier weapon like an axe.

‘Being flippant about my choice is a bit regrettable.’

I might hurt Luna’s feelings, but it can’t be helped. While it’s nothing personal, the immediate priority is fighting techniques.

In the earlier encounter with Porori, I had to fight with my bare hands against someone of equal skill.

Of course, while “bare hands” means I wasn’t without my magic, it’s still significant nonetheless.

“Alright, our cute little friend? If you want to learn from your big sister, just throw that sword far away, okay?”

Kara, now full of confidence, lightly tapped my arm holding the sword as she spoke.

I glanced around, surveying to see if the training area had “that” available too.

Meanwhile, Luna, who had been looking annoyed, sensed something off and questioned Kara.

“…Wait a minute, Kara.”

“Why? Are you also learning now…?”

“No. It’s just that you said, ‘throw it far away?’”

“Yep. But that’s…”

Kara stopped abruptly, looking at me with a surprised expression.

By then, I had already pulled my arm back, and Kara quickly raised her arms in a gesture of urgency.

Bang!

Before I was able to throw, the sword had already left my hand. I hurled it without hesitation.

It was a light toss, but a gust strong enough to flutter Kara’s red hair was created.

The training sword shot forward with incredible speed and—

Whack!

It struck a clock mounted high up on the wall dead-on.

“…”

“…”

The training area, filled with noise from students a moment ago, fell eerily silent.

It seemed everyone had been subconsciously keeping an eye on this side.

“…I’ll go.”

“Y-Yeah. Guess I’ll have to choose my words more carefully from now on.”

“Kara isn’t at fault. It’s just…”

Luna, who was heading towards the clock where the training sword was stuck, paused to look back at me.

After staring at me with a complex gaze for a moment, she snickered lightly.

“…I guess that happens.”

I felt a bit guilty.

******

Luna walked toward the clock where the training sword was lodged, feeling a sense of helplessness.

While she could hear whispers from around her, it didn’t register in her mind.

Sure, Sivar’s antics were noteworthy, but what troubled her most was his choice.

‘Why didn’t he pick me?’

For Luna, that was the biggest question. Why did Sivar choose Kara instead of her?

She was the one who first met him alongside Eli, and she became familiar with him while playing the protector’s role.

When he said he wanted to learn swordsmanship, she was keen on teaching him. Yet, he had chosen Kara.

‘What could be lacking?’

As Luna pondered, she glanced back at Kara. She was speaking to Sivar, drawing something on his palm. It didn’t seem she was teaching him words.

Kara wasn’t particularly short herself, but Sivar towered over her, nearly a giant by comparison.

‘Wait a minute.’

Suddenly, she noticed something: Kara’s ample chest.

While it wasn’t quite as bountiful as Elie’s, it was still significant.

And what about Luna? She wasn’t small, but she definitely fell short in comparison.

‘Is it because he has a special fondness for Elie?’

In terms of looks, Luna felt she held her own. The only real difference was in body shape.

A strangely persuasive theory made Luna pout her lips. As a woman, it was bruising her pride.

‘Got it. Now it makes sense.’

Her master once said that men tend to have child-like aspects genetically and often give in to their instincts.

So it was perfectly natural for a man to be attracted to a well-built woman.

Especially, considering Sivar was raised in the wilderness, he’d be more attuned to such “instincts.” Thus, he might have chosen Kara.

‘What’s so great about that lump of fat?’

As everything began to fit together like a puzzle, Luna pouted even more.

If not for the cave wall paintings, she wouldn’t have taken the protector role at all.

Still, it was important to maintain that role, as accidents might happen.

This was solely to ensure Sivar’s safety and nothing personal about it.

“Humph.”

Luna turned her head sharply, marching toward the direction of the clock. Snorting was just a bonus.

When she finally reached the wall where the sword was lodged, she realized it was at a pretty high position.

‘Maybe around 5 meters?’

Activating her internal magic, she jumped high. In an instant, she was at eye level with the clock.

Surprisingly, it protruded deeply into the clock, implying astonishing force and precision, even with a casual toss.

Swish!

As she pulled out the sword, she grabbed the clock with one hand to prevent it from falling.

Getting it to the ground smoothly would be a hassle otherwise.

Luna landed softly and scrutinized the clock. The sword was stuck firmly and wouldn’t shake free.

‘Interesting patterns, huh?’

The design etched on the clock was quite unique. At first glance, it could easily be mistaken for a magic circle.

Completely colorless and drawn only in black and white.

Luna looked around before focusing intently on the clock, trying to analyze it further.

If it were a genuine magic circle, she wanted to determine its structure.

[Colorless Magic Circle: ???]

[Made without using any color]

[Crafted for a special purpose. Only those who do not use colors can bear witness.]

[Special Effect: ???]

“?!”

Luna’s face quickly turned to one of shock upon reading the message.

Her mouth fell slightly open, and her eyes widened. She almost dropped the clock in astonishment.

The world is filled with various colors. Expressing the beauty of life through colors is a trivial task.

However, a being that has lost every color exists—a demon, as mentioned in Godin’s lecture.

‘Not just black and white, but colorless…’

Demons lost their colors after being defeated in the war against God.

To somehow maintain their form, they exist as “black and white.”

Yet even so, it’s still color that defines them. Thus, demons overall are often viewed as alien.

This magic circle might appear to be merely drawn in black and white, but upon closer focus, it seems to subtly shimmer.

‘It’s true that demons are plotting to invade the Academy.’

With a stiffened face, Luna shifted her gaze from the clock to the side.

Kara appeared to be doodling something on Sivar’s hand. It seemed she was teaching him a word.

‘Can this be a coincidence? Or is it just luck…?’

Did Sivar throw the sword knowing this was a magic circle created by demons? Or did he throw it at random without aim?

Then, was it true that he painted the wall? If so, does he genuinely possess knowledge of the “future”?

Though nothing was certain, there was one thing that was clear:

Demons are aiming for the Academy.

“…”

Luna gazed at Sivar with a complicated expression.

The more she delved in, the more suspicious his identity seemed.

Coincidentally, this was the perfect time to communicate, so she thought it might be a good idea to start asking about the wall paintings.

“Are your muscles really that firm? You could directly learn techniques without needing physical training.”

“…”

On a separate note, that’s a bit irritating. Luna felt her eyes twitch at the sight before her.

Kara was touching parts of Sivar’s body with her hands, assessing him.

Starting from his sturdy thighs, moving up to his abs, chest, shoulders, and so on.

Even with such bold physical contact, Sivar stood still.

He merely stared vacantly with his trademark expressionless face.

‘Why is he just standing there?’

Could it be that they’ve gotten that close after such a short period? Was the earlier conversation they had really that deep?

Sivar, raised in the wilderness, was extremely sensitive to sudden physical touches.

Yet he stood there without flinching. It seemed he instinctively deemed Kara to be safe.

‘…I’ll have to discuss the wall when we’re alone.’

To do so, first, I need to separate them.

Again, I stress that this wasn’t for any ulterior motives but solely to talk about the wall painting.

It’s unlikely that I could harbor feelings for a guy I’ve known for barely a month.

Even if he is quite handsome, I wouldn’t go that far yet.

‘As for the clock… let’s toss it in the trash for now.’

Luna threw the clock, with the magic circle drawn on it, into the trash bin.

If she tossed it straight into the burn pile, demons might suspect something.

It was essential to demonstrate that it was all purely a ‘coincidence.’ Otherwise, it could spell danger.

“I’m back.”

“Oh. You’re back? What about the clock?”

“It seemed broken, so I threw it away.”

“Aren’t you supposed to report that?”

“…Oh.”

Damaging school property is entirely the student’s responsibility. And Sivar is still adjusting.

In other words, it could mean he might stray further from normal admission.

If the principal hears about this, he’s likely to chuckle while grasping his neck.

“…Sivar.”

“Yeah?”

“You really… no, never mind.”

I felt a sense of foreboding about the future.

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